All Episodes - Christmas Past
Behind every Christmas tradition is a story, often a forgotten one. Every year as we put up a tree and pour the eggnog, we’re continuing generations-old narratives, while being mostly unaware of their starting chapters. Join Brian Earl to explore the fascinating stories behind the most wonderful time of the year. It's equal parts nerdy deep dive and warmhearted celebration. Think: NPR meets Clement Clarke Moore! Christmas Past is one of the longest running Christmas podcasts, now in its tenth season. Vanity Fair says: "With excellent production, engaging narration, and short, digestible running times, Christmas Past is perfect to put on while decorating your tree or preparing Christmas dinner."Brian is the author of two books about Christmas: Of Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025) and Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022). Both are available in hardcov
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Christmas 2025
Merry Christmas! The festive season reaches its peak today. And for the tenth year in a row, I'm here on Christmas Day to take a look back. We'll reflect on the news and trends, the sights and sounds that made Christmas of 2025 what it was. Plus, a little report from Christmas Past headquarters, and a guest appearance from little Dashiell! Wishing all of your a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I'll see you all again in 2026! Music in this Episode"Deck the Halls A" — Kevin MacLeod, via IncompetechConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Christmas Memories 2025 - vol 4
This episode arrives on Christmas Eve Eve. It's our final family gathering of the season, where members of the Christmas Past family share some of their favorite Christmas memories. Music in This Episode"Cozy Podcast Music with Christmas Bells" — Denis Pavlov, via Pixabay"Podcast Jazz Waltz Cozy Relaxing Vibes" — Denis Pavlov, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
The Secret Santa of Kansas City
A mysterious philanthropist spent more than 25 years handing out cash anonymously around Kansas City at Christmastime. Music in this Episode"I Knew A Guy" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech"Elegy for Manush" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"The Agency Man" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Velvet Ladder" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Soft Piano Music" — Clavier Music, via Pixabay"A Very Brady Special" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" — Unnamed Artist, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Christmas Memories 2025 - vol 3
We're at the end of the last full week of the Christmas season. Christmas 2025 is right around the corner. And today, we're back with another family gathering to reminisce about Christmases past. It's another visit dedicated to you and your Christmas memories! Music in This Episode"Cozy Podcast Music with Christmas Bells" — Denis Pavlov, via Pixabay"Podcast Jazz Waltz Cozy Relaxing Vibes" — Denis Pavlov, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
The Silent Night
During the Great War, the fighting briefly ceased on Christmas on some parts of the front line. The so-called "Christmas Truce" has become almost legendary. What really happened? Read some of the newspaper articles from 1914 and 1915 reporting on the story at the Library of Congress's Chronicling America archive. Music in this Episode"Drum Feature: Generations from the Simple Gifts Show" — The United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, via Free Music Archive"Silent Night" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech"It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech"Slowest Time" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" — The Victor Mixed Chorus, via Library of Congress"The First Noel" — The Victor Mixed Chorus, via Library of Congress"Silent Night" — The Victor Mixed Chorus, via Library of Congress"Gentle Soft Piano | Christmas Vibes" — Alex Productions, via Free Music ArchiveConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
All of you on the Good Earth
1968 was one of the most tumultuous years in modern history. But one bright spot occurred on Christmas Eve: an amazing feat that captivated the world.Music in this Episode"Farewell" — Maarten Schellekens, via Free Music Archive"Endless Cosmos" — Serge Quadrado, via Free Music Archive"You'll Never Come to Dorset" — C. Diab, from the album Immerro, courtesy of Tonal Union records"Dawn Summit" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Cozy Jazz Podcast Music with Christmas Bells" — Denis Pavlov, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
The Hero of Dear Old Halifax
A tragic accident at Christmastime in 1917 gives way to a story of a heroic response, a lasting friendship, and a unique Christmas tradition. Read Walter's letter to Harold, described in this story.Music in this Episode"Carrier's Lullaby" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Quiet Serenity" — Lite Saturation, via Free Music Archive"Stay the Course" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech"Oh Christmas Tree" — Don Maue, shared directly by the artist"Relax Romantic Jazz Calm Soothing Home" — Denis Pavlov, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Christmas Memories 2025 - vol 2
Boy, are we right in the thick of this Christmas season. Thanksgiving was just a little over two weeks ago. Christmas Day is just a little under two weeks from today. I suppose that makes it peak Christmas season. So, what better time to come together again for a Christmas Past family gathering? Today, it's another special episode dedicated to you and your Christmas memories. Music in This Episode"Cozy Podcast Music with Christmas Bells" — Denis Pavlov, via Pixabay"Podcast Jazz Waltz Cozy Relaxing Vibes" — Denis Pavlov, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
None Appeared More Astonished
A child's Christmas surprise for his family in 1902 became the stuff of myth and legend. Music in this Episode"Crystal Dreams" — Lite Saturation, via Free Music Archive"Silent Movie" —Anastasia Chubarova, via Pixabay"Dreadnaught Files" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Cannolini" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Lonely Christmas" — Snoozy Beats, via Free Music Archive"Calm Christmas Piano" — Clavier Clavier, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
The Weeping Waters
In 1953, a Christmas Eve train bound for New Zealand's capital city met a tragic fate. Music in this Episode"Ourselves at Least" — C. Diab, from the album Imerro on Tonal Union Records"Bucharest" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Cozy Winter" — Oleksii Kalyna, via Pixabay"Velejo" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Below the River" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Sad Sorrowful Documentary Music" — Ievgen Poltavskyi, via Pixabay"Venus Aire" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music ArchiveConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
When the Current Was Turned
In 1882, inventor Edward Johnson set up a one-of-a-kind Christmas display in his New York City home...and it changed the face of Christmas as we know it.Music in This Episode"Vessel Five" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"In the Saloon" — Piano Music, via Pixabay"Whispers of the Heart" — Lite Saturation, via Free Music Archive"Vessel One" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Sunday Morning" — Maarten Schellekens, via Free Music Archive"World of Dreams" — Tune Tank, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Christmas Memories 2025 - vol 1
The Christmas season is in full swing. The tree is up. The carols are playing. The shopping and baking merrymaking of all sorts is here once again. We're all doing a lot of the stuff that Christmas memories are made of. And Christmas memories are what bring us together here today. This season on Christmas Past, I’m sharing your Christmas memories in special episodes dedicated just to them...like this one. I want to share one of your memories in one of the several other episodes like that will arrive in the coming weeks. Listen to the episode for details on how to be on the show! Music in This Episode"Cozy Podcast Music with Christmas Bells" — Denis Pavlov, via Pixabay"Podcast Jazz Waltz Cozy Relaxing Vibes" — Denis Pavlov, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Homecoming
On a cold winter's night, a man working in a field saw an out-of-place object in the night sky. This is a Christmas story, but it's not the one you think it is. Music in This Episode"Below the River" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Dream Lodger" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Embrace Serenity" — Lite Saturation, via Free Music Archive"Mallet Play" — Maarten Schellekens, via Free Music Archive"The First Noel" — Clavier, via Pixabay"Greensleeves" — Don Maue, shared directly by the artistConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
The Builder of Tomorrows
Inventor Reginald Aubrey Fessenden received hundreds of patents in his career. And one invention that debuted in 1906 changed Christmas as we know it.Music in This Episode"Agony and Ivory" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"The Cresting" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Tranquility" — Kevin MacLeod, via Free Music Archive"Peaceful Acoustic Guitar Instrumental for Relaxation" — Nicholas Panek, via Pixabay"Wholesome Original Lullaby" — Viktor Baikovskyi, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
The Birthday Gift
Teenaged Annie Ide resented being born on December 25 because Christmas always overshadowed her birthday. But a unique birthday gift from an eccentric family friend would change the course of her life forever. Music in This Episode"An Early Sneak" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Taboret" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Calm Meditation, Good Sleep" — Lihn Pham, via Pixabay"Cozy Jazz Podcast Music with Christmas Bells" — Denis Pavlov, via Pixabay"Clean Soul" — Kevin MacLeod, via Free Music Archive"Sparkling Twilight" — Lite Saturation, via Free Music ArchiveConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Season 10 Announcement, Dickens Fair, etc.
Just dropping by with a quick hello, now that the season is in full swing. Today, I share an announcement about this season of Christmas Past, as well as share highlights from my annual visit to the Great Dickens Christmas Fair in San Francisco. Plus...a surprise guest appearance!Music in this Episode"Working Time - Soft Acoustic Guitar" — Dream Protocol, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Story Time: Lucky's Grove
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! It's the kickoff to the main season of Christmas Past. What better way to get things going than with a cozy gathering around the fire for some old fashioned storytelling? Today, I'm back with a ghost story for Christmas. In "Lucky's Grove," when a Christmas tree is selected from a mysterious grove, strange and tragic events follow. Thanks to my friends at Biblioasis for once again giving me the opportunity to share this year's set of ghost stories with you. There's still time to buy hard copies of these beautifully designed editions of classic ghost stories. Music in This Episode"The Holly and the Ivy - Celtic Christmas Music" — Nate L, via Pixabay"Deep Relaxation" — Kevin MacLeod, via IncompetechConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Interview: Vaughn Joy, Author of Selling Out Santa
In today's episode, Vaughn Joy, Ph.D. joins Christmas Past to discuss how the social and political climate of the mid-20th century shaped the Christmas movies of that era. She's the author of the new book, Selling Out Santa: Hollywood Christmas Films in the Age of McCarthyMusic in this Episode"Happy Night Christmas Winter Jazz" — Music for Videos, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Interview: Thomas Ruys Smith, author of Searching for Santa Claus
Today, we welcome back a frequent guest on Christmas Past. Thomas Ruys Smith is a professor of American literature and culture at the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom. He’s also a frequent guest on Christmas Past and the author of several books about Christmas history and literature. His latest is Searching for Santa Claus: An Anthology of the Poems, Stories, and Illustrations that Shaped a Global Icon. Music in this Episode"Jazz Christmas Music" — Pulsebox, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Interview: Alonso Duralde, author of Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas
Today, I'm talking to Alonso Duralde, film critic, podcaster, and author of Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas (2nd Edition).Music in this episode"Our Minds Following" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music ArchiveConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Story Time: The Mistress in Black
Happy Halloween, everyone! 👻🎃 And welcome to the 2025 pre-season for Christmas Past.For the past several years now, we've kicked off the pre-season with a ghost story from my friends at Biblioasis Publishing. They publish a series of three ghost stories for Christmas every year, beautifully designed and illustrated by the acclaimed artist known only as Seth. Today, I'm narrating Rosemary Temperley's short story, "The Mistress in Black."Check These Out 🎄Biblioasis Publishing's Ghost Stories for ChristmasMy latest book: Of Christmases Long, Long AgoMore ways to connect with Christmas PastMusic in this Episode 🎼"Autumn Halloween" — Sound Garage, via Pixabay"Ambient Background Pad" — Siarhei Korbut via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Christmas 2024 (plus listener memories)
The big day is here, and so is our final episode of 2024. As we so do every year, we'll take a look back at all the news, trends, sights, and sounds that made this Christmas what it was. We'll also hear some Christmas memories from the Christmas Past family.Thank you for another wonderful season. I'll see you next year.Merry Christmas!Music in this episode"Jazz Podcast Night Relaxing Vibes" — Denis Pavlov, via Pixabay"Wish Background" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech"Calm Piano Music" — Piotr Witowski, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: Wren Day
The small, unassuming wren may be nothing much to look at, but wait till it starts singing. Its loud, complex songs, and its tendency to sing them throughout winter, has earned it the title of “King of Birds.” But on December 26, the king is dead. Wren Day is a traditional hunting of the wren, followed by celebrations that include disguise, door-to-door visiting and parading, and song. It’s certainly one of our most strange and mysterious Christmas customs, a mixture of Celtic mythology, old Christmas traditions, and revenge for giving away secrets. Tiernan Gaffney from the National Museum of Ireland joins Brian to tell the story. Special thanks to Lewis Barfoot for permission to include her beautiful rendition of The Wren Song!Music in this episode"Calm Lullaby for Irish Harp" — Mountain Dweller, via Pixabay"Greensleeves" — Julius H., via Pixabay"Hark! The Herald Angles Sing" — Jon Sayles, via freemusicpublicdomain.com"Angels We Have Heard" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech"Morning Air" — Noru, via Pixabay"The Wren Song" — Lewis Barfoot, shared directly by the artistConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: The Yule Lads
One by one, over a series of nights during Christmastime in Iceland, the Yule Lads come down from a mountain, making mischief, rewarding good behavior and punishing bad. These lovable scamps are unique melding of folkloric traditions, and a reminder that Christmas once was — and still can be — haunted and scary. Terry Gunnell, professor emeritus of folkloristics at the University of Iceland, joins Brian to tell the story. Thanks also to Baldur Gylfa for appearing in this episode!Music in this episode"Momentary Ease" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Relaxing Piano" — Uncredited artists, via Pixabay"Tiled Chamber" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Ambient Christmas" — Denys Kyshchuk, via Pixabay"The First Noel" — Calvin Clavier, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: Ded Moroz
Ded Moroz ("Grandfather Frost"), went from folk tale to fairy tale, from beloved symbol of Christmas to exile, and then back to beloved symbol, all in surprisingly short order. It’s a story of ups and downs, set against the backdrop of a violent social and political revolution, and which resulted in a strange stint as the “Soviet Santa Claus.” Karen Petrone, University of Kentucky history professor and author of Life Has Become More Joyous, Comrades, joins Brian to tell the story. Clara in Australia shares a Christmas memory in this episode. Check out her podcast, The Festivity Files.Music in this episode"Waiting at the Hem" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Reverie - Claude Debussy - Classic Concert Grand Piano" — JuliusH, via Pixabay"Heartstring Serenade" — Liudmyla Polishchuk, via Pixabay"Somewhere in my Memory - Xmas Piano" — Calvin Clavier, via Pixabay"O Come O Come Emmanuel" — Jon Sayles, freemusicpublicdomain.comConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Your Christmas Memories 2024
Once again it’s time for one of my favorite traditions here on Christmas Past: dedicating an entire episode to you and your Christmas memories! I love these little glimpses into other people’s lives, families, memories, and all the different ways that Christmas can be celebrated and loved and made special and personal. So, get cozy. You’re invited to another Christmas Past family gathering, and trip down memory lane. Music in this episode"Cozy Jazz Podcast Music with Christmas Bells" — Denis Pavlov, via Pixabay"Relaxing Piano / Lofi Music" — John Tramp, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: Ivy
For a long time, ivy conjured images of all things pagan, superstitious, gluttonous, debauched, and morbid. For those reasons, it would be forbidden from churches and Christian homes. Today, it's a classic symbol of Christmas. Sue Hunter joins Brian to tell this uniquely Christmassy turnaround story. Thank you to composer Sarah Cattley for permission to share the beautiful rendition of "Ivy, Chief of Trees it Is," performed by the Granta Chorale and conducted by Janet Wheeler. Music in this episode"The Holly and the Ivy" — Jerome Chauvel, via Pixabay"God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" — Jon Sayles, via Royalty Free Music"Christmas Night" — Floating Dreamer, via Pixabay"Oh Holy Night" — Calvin Clavier, via Pixabay"Luminous Rain" — Kevin MacLeod, via Youtube Audio Library"Ivy, Chief of Trees it Is" — Sarah Cattley, used with permission from the composerConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: Gremlins
Forty years ago, audiences got into the Christmas spirit by watching a little green creature get killed in a blender. Gremlins was more than a movie that combined horror, comedy, gory violence, and Christmas. It was a massive a pop culture phenomenon, and one of the last movies of its kind to be rated PG. Alonso Duralde, film critic, podcaster, and author of Have Yourself a Movie Little Christmas and Hollywood Pride joins Brian to discuss this iconic 80's hit. Music in this episode"Granite Faces" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Hope Piano" — Anastasia Kir, via Pixabay"Notche" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Wish Background" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech"Movie Theme 1" — Christian Bodhi, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: Why is Christmas on December 25?
If Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus, and we celebrate it on December 25, then Jesus must have been born on that day, right? Not so fast! We actually have no good idea when Jesus was born. And besides, the observance of his birth on December 25 is a 4th century contrivance. But why December 25 of all days? In today's episode, professor and author Michael Foley joins Brian to make sense of it all. Get a copy of Dr. Foley's book, Why We Kiss Under the Mistletoe.Music in this episode"Stress Relief Piano" — PianoAmor, via Pixabay"It Came Upon the Midnight Clear" — Don Maue, shared directly by the artist"Neatly Folded" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Oh Christmas Tree" — Kevin MacLeod, via Incompetech"First Snow" — Scott Buckley, via scottbuckley.com.auConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: The Original Santa Claus Parade
Who doesn't love a parade? The very idea of a procession, usually involving costumes and music, is at least 4,000 years old. But grand parades to kick off the Christmas season are much newer. The kind we're most familiar with nowadays developed when large retail chains held parades to stimulate shopping and define a new, earlier start to the Christmas season. All that capitalism sounds very American, but — surprise! — Canada beat us to it!In today's episode, Clayton Charters, president and CEO of the Original Santa Claus Parade in Toronto, joins Brian.Watch the playback of the 2024 Santa Claus Parade on Youtube!Music in this Episode"Happy Christmas Day" — LudoSoundX, via Pixabay"I'm Not Feeling Well Today" — u_0tyyfec3hz, via Pixabay"O Little Town of Bethlehem" — Calvin Clavier, via Pixabay"Jazz Theme 5" — Erkki Marjasvaara, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: The Magi
The three kings. The wise men. The magi. They're the supporting cast in many a Nativity scene...the subject of several postage stamps and greeting cards...the subject of that classic Christmas song. Who were they? Where were they from? Why did they traverse afar following yonder star? What was with the gold, frankincense, and myrrh? Were they even real? And does it matter? Today, professor and author Eric Vanden Eykel joins Brian to tell the story of these mysterious figures. Check out Eric Vanden Eykel's book, The Magi.Music in this episode"Beyond the Cranberry House" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive“Drifting Spot” — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"We Three Kings of Orient Are" — United States Air Force Band, via Wikimedia Commons"Early Morning Snowfall" — Chuck Brown, via Feels Like Christmas"Nostalgic" — Anastasia Kir, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: Rankin/Bass Christmas Specials
The creative team of Rankin and Bass have produced some of the most enduring, nostalgia-producing Christmas specials in television history. Historian and biographer Rick Goldschmidt joins Brian to tell the story of how an art director and an ad jingle writer became "the kings of Christmas."LinksMore info about Rankin/Bass and Rick GoldschmidtRick's books about Rankin/BassMusic in this episode"Kettled" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Soft Piano" — Anastasia Kir, via Pixabay"O Holy Night (Solo Piano)" — 23843807, via Pixabay"Wish Background" — Kevin MacLeod, via IncompetecConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: Toys for Tots
The more than 75-year success story of Toys for Tots may seem like a fairly simple story: the Marine Corp reserve starts up a holiday charity for needy kids. But there’s more to it than that. From humble, almost accidental beginnings in 1947, the program was able to grow through a unique mix of show business connections, celebrity endorsements, political influence, post World War II America, and...Walt Disney. Music in this episode"Lullaby" — Maarten Schellekens, via Free Music Archive"Toys for Tots" — Nat King Cole, via Toys for Tots Foundation, used with permission"Feelings of Twilight" — Shady Dave, via Freesound"Silent Night" — Anastasia Kir, via Pixabay"Germination" — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Eternal Hope" — Kevin MacLeod, via Youtube Audio LibraryConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: Christmas Creep
A lot of people complain that Christmas comes earlier every year. But, is that really true? Extended holiday shopping seasons have been the norm for well over a century. And besides, there's one big (and spooooky) reason that Christmas can only come so early. Marketing professor Darrin Duber-Smith joins Brian to discuss the phenomenon of "Christmas creep."Music in this episode"Silent Movie (Old Record Version)" — Anastasia Kir, via Pixabay"Deck the Hall Jazz" — Anastasia Kir, via Pixabay"Ambient Piano" — BlackPy Beats, via Pixabay"Gentle Soft Piano - Christmas Vibes" — Alex Products, via Free Music Archive"We Wish You a Merry Christmas" — Dee Yan-Kee, via Free Music ArchiveConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Danny Pellegrino, Author of The Jolliest Bunch
Danny Pellegrino is a bestselling author, actor, and screenwriter. His latest book, The Jolliest Bunch: Unhinged Holiday Stories, is a nostalgic trip through his most festive memories in a collection of stories that are heartfelt, hilarious, and — for better or worse — true. I caught up with Danny earlier this year to talk about the book, Christmas, family, and more. Music in this episode"Christmas Jazzy Bells" — BFMC Music, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Interview: Actor John Rhys-Davies on Scrooge: A Christmas Carol
Actor John Rhys-Davies (Lord of the Rings, Indiana Jones) joins Brian to discuss Scrooge, A Christmas Carol. Rhys-Davies plays Dickens's narrator in this four-part audio drama podcast, set for re-release on November 22. Music in this episode"O Holy Night" — Calvin Clavier, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
2024 Indie Christmas Music Playlist
We're in the early Christmas preseason. It's the perfect time to discover some new Christmas music before the radio stations start overplaying the standard set of classics. In this episode, we've got some new-to-you Christmas songs from independent artists you may not have otherwise discovered on your favorite station or streaming service.Music in this episode"Cozy Jazz Podcast Music with Christmas Bells" — Denis Pavlov, via Pixabay"Christmas Cheer" — Robert Lawlor"Vermont Christmas" — The PredicatesIt Doesn't Feel Like Christmas" — Winterval"The Christmas Song" — Birdie Nichols"Good King Wenceslas (Slassin' In) — The Staven Wassailers"HOME" — Lewis BarfootLewis Barfoot's HOME is available on vinyl! Check Bandcamp or her website for more. It's also available at most records stores in Ireland.Connect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Storytime: "Podolo"
Happy Halloween, everybody! And more than that: welcome to another season of Christmas Past. Yes, it’s still Halloween. But that's the perfect time to kick things off, because it gives us a chance to honor the classic Christmas tradition of sharing a ghost story. Our Victorian forebears really loved their ghost stories — for all occasions, but perhaps especially for Christmas. Many magazines of the era published ghost stories specifically for the Christmas season. The stories didn’t necessarily involve Christmas; but they were meant to be enjoyed on Christmas Eve, adding a little extra chill to a cold winter’s night.Though the tradition has faded, it’s not gone altogether. And that’s thanks in part to my friends at Biblioasis publishing. Every year, they publish a series of classic ghost stories beautifully illustrated by the acclaimed artist known only as Seth. It’s become a yearly tradition here on Christmas Past to start the season off with a story from their current series. In today's story, when a group of tourists visits the deserted island of Podolo, one wants to rescue a feral cat they find there, and the others reluctantly agree. Unfortunately, the rescue proves more difficult than they expect — and they soon discover they’re not alone on Podolo. Music in this episode“Didion” — Blue Dot Sessions, via Free Music Archive"Frequency of Sleep Meditation" — Leigh Robinson, via Pixabay"Endless" — MildRelaxation, via PixabayConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Christmas 2023
It's our eighth consecutive Christmas together. As we close out the 2023 season, we're taking a look back at the news and trends that made this Christmas what it was. Thank you all for another wonderful Christmas season together. Merry Christmas! And until we meet again, may your days be merry and bright. Music in this Episode "Deck the Halls A" — Kevin MacLeod, via IncompetechConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)
Backstory: Boxing Day
Here in America, the day after Christmas is simply that: the day after. The party's over. But in England, it's an official holiday. December 26 — Boxing Day — is the Christmas afterparty you've been missing out on. What's the story? And what does it have to do with boxing? Paul Kerensa joins Christmas Past to...unpack the box. Mentioned in this EpisodePaul KerensaHark! The Biography of Christmas, by Paul KerensaMusic in this Episode"Good King Wenceslas" — U.S. Army Band, via Wikimedia Commons"Oh Come All Ye Faithful" — DJ Williams, via Youtube Audio Library"In the Bleak Midwinter" — Julius H., via Pixabay"Emotional Piano Improvisation" — Alexander Nakarada, via Film Music"Holiday Gift" — Kai Engel, via Free Music ArchiveSection from A Christmas Carol read by Peter John Keeble, courtesy of LibrivoxConnect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)